III
by BadBadNotGood
Metascore
72

Generally favorable reviews - based on 8 Critic Reviews

Critic score distribution:
  1. Positive: 6 out of 8
  2. Mixed: 2 out of 8
  3. Negative: 0 out of 8
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  1. CMJ
    May 9, 2014
    80
    III is an album so methodically arranged yet lawless at times that even its more flatlined moments play an integral role in its rebellion.
  2. Exclaim
    May 5, 2014
    80
    III's hazy, after-hours vibe is infectious, and these songs reveal fresh nuance with repeat listens.
  3. NOW Magazine
    May 5, 2014
    80
    Instead of imitating the manipulated loops of funk drummers that defined earlier rap, they make references to the more robotic feel of contemporary drum machine beats, which, combined with their nods to indie rock, puts them in a category all their own.
  5. PopMatters
    May 13, 2014
    70
    III is well worth your time and money out of your pocketbook if you’re definitely into this sort of thing.
  6. The 405
    May 5, 2014
    70
    This is a good record but unfortunately there's something missing.
  7. New Musical Express (NME)
    May 5, 2014
    70
    III is a fluid, inventive affair.

Awards & Rankings

52
#52 Most Shared Album of 2014

User Reviews

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User Score
8.6

Universal acclaim- based on 38 Ratings

User score distribution:
  1. Positive: 38 out of 38
  2. Mixed: 0 out of 38
  3. Negative: 0 out of 38
  1. andrilitvynchuk
    Aug 12, 2023
    8
    Whenever I don't have internet and want to read I turn on this album. Kaleidoscope is so greeeeat
  2. nicholasbert
    Nov 2, 2014
    8
    BADBADNOTGOOD's third album doesn't quite detach itself from the previous two, despite it featuring original songs with quite a simpler style.BADBADNOTGOOD's third album doesn't quite detach itself from the previous two, despite it featuring original songs with quite a simpler style. The pointy drum patterns downsize to more affordable rhythms, while still maintaining a strong sense of originality. Genres vary from pure jazz ("Differently Still") to nu-disco ("Since You Asked Kindly").

    In the end, it's an awesome record, full of quality in performance, artistry and production.    … Full Review »
  3. Vampire25
    May 25, 2014
    9
    Since the first release, Badbadnotgood were pushing boundaries. Taking songs from prominent hip hop figures, improvising jazz tunes to them,Since the first release, Badbadnotgood were pushing boundaries. Taking songs from prominent hip hop figures, improvising jazz tunes to them, and occasionally dropping a few originals. With III, they not only craft one original track after another, but it's almost impeccable how much better their original material is over their covers. Don't confuse my statement, their previous two records were great on their own stance, but III has opened up new doors for Badbadnotgood, doors not even the band has experienced until now. Added electronics and slightly more guitar use is just what the band needed. Their improvisational skills are unmatched.

    All In All, III is a fantastic jazz album, one that should not be overlooked. Three consecutive, brilliant records in a row. A-    … Full Review »
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